The 2024 National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement reshaped how real estate commissions work — and it's good news for sellers who want control over their costs.
What actually changed
Two big things:
- Buyer-agent commissions are no longer pre-set on the MLS. Offers of buyer-agent compensation can't be advertised in the MLS the old way, which makes the whole thing openly negotiable.
- Buyers now sign written agreements with their agents spelling out how that agent gets paid.
What it means for you as a seller
You are no longer expected to automatically offer ~3% to a buyer's agent. Whether you offer buyer-agent compensation — and how much — is now your decision, negotiated deal by deal. Combined with a flat listing fee, that means you can control both sides of what used to be a ~6% commission.
Old world: ~6% total, mostly fixed. New world: a flat listing fee from $99 + a buyer-agent commission you choose (or don't). See the plans →
Should you still offer a buyer-agent commission?
Often, yes — a competitive buyer-agent commission can widen your buyer pool, since many buyers still work with agents. But it's now a strategic choice based on your market and price point, not an automatic 3%. Our brokers help you decide what's smart for your specific home.
How flat fee MLS fits the new world
Flat fee MLS was built for exactly this: you pay a flat fee to get full MLS and portal exposure, keep your listing-side equity, and decide buyer-agent compensation yourself. It's the most cost-efficient way to sell in the post-settlement market.
This is general information, not legal advice. Want to see your numbers? Get a free home value estimate or explore your area: Palm Beach County · Treasure Coast.